Noirine.

Dear All, When I was about 14, I asked my mum for a Christmas gift I wasn’t sure she’d let me have.  Every year, she used the gift from my sponsors to buy me a new dress. But when I became a teenager, dresses seemed babyish, so I plucked up the courage to ask for a top and trousers.  When you grow up in poverty, choice is a luxury and I didn’t hold out much hope. But that Christmas, when I carefully opened the package, my heart filled with joy when I saw the outfit. Wearing it made me feel confident, independent and wonderfully grown up.  I had learnt to lower my expectations and make do. But that Christmas, with the support of my family, my church and my sponsor, I got to choose. It may sound like a small thing, but it was one of the first times I felt valued and able to decide something for myself.  When you donate to the Christmas Appeal, you’ll help our local church partners create joyful celebrations for children and their families. These special moments bring communities together to celebrate the birth of Jesus and remind every child that they’re known, valued and loved. Each Compassion project celebrates in the way that best serves its community. Some church partners give families money to choose what they need, while others select a special present for each child. Whatever form the celebration takes, your generosity will help children and families make precious Christmas memories together. Will you give a gift today and help share the joy of Christmas? Thank you for the generosity you’ve already shown. God bless you, Noirine Compassion graduate, Uganda Senior Manager of Sponsorship Support, Compassion International P.S. Please give by 2 November, so our church partners have time to prepare for Christmas.